Director of Pupil Personnel Services

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Period 4
Mrs. Ritacco


Mr. Michael Biggan - Director of Pupil Personnel Services

Education
  • Grew up in Kearney, NJ
  • Undergraduate – Boston College
  • Master’s – Fordham University

Career
  • Was a teacher
    • In a Chicago Catholic school
    • 5th grade
    • Taught High School
    • Guidance Counselor
      • Ramsey High School
      • Director of Guidance – Keyport High School
        • Stayed one year then transferred to HPREG

His current position
  • Supervises the guidance counselors
  • Splits his time between WP and HP
  • Reports to the Superintendant
    • Consults the school principals

A typical day
  • Early to read emails and prepare
  • Has unpredictable days
  • Meetings
    • Counselors
    • His secretary
    • Principals / Asst. Principals

Personal characteristics to be successful in this career
  • Problem Solver
  • Have good judgment / be a good decision maker
  • Be comfortable with a constantly changing schedule/uncertainty
  • Stress management
    • Once problems escalate to him they are usually serious.
    • Likes young people
    • Outgoing
    • Challenge students to achieve
    • Confident public speaker
    • Must be empathetic

Personal Achievements
  • This is the job he’s always wanted
  • Loving and supportive family

The most rewarding part of his career
  • Watching students grow and succeed
  • Having an influence in students’ lives

Least favorite part of his job
  • Paperwork!

Changes he would like to see in the District
  • Increase the number of AP courses
  • Increase the opportunities for students.
  • Align the district’s guidance department to national standards